FAYETTEVILLE, WV (LOOTPRESS) — A disturbing incident involving a group of young men led to a bloody assault and an ongoing police investigation in Fayetteville Saturday evening.
At approximately 12:46 p.m., Patrolman Seth Gunnoe of the Fayetteville Police Department was dispatched after Fayette County 911 received a call reporting a physical altercation outside the Southside Junction Tap House. The caller claimed they had been attacked at a nearby apartment and that the suspect was intoxicated and walking toward Court Street.
Officers located a shirtless, barefoot man with visible injuries to his face, arms, and mouth near the Pies & Pints establishment. Visibly shaken and emotional, he told officers he had been “jumped” and identified two individuals involved in the attack by name. He was later transported by EMS to Plateau Medical Center for evaluation.
Shortly afterward, police made contact with two individuals leaving an apartment near the scene. They were identified as Ethan Edward Comer (DOB 6/10/02) and Damien Nicholi Hunter (DOB 8/22/01). Both were interviewed separately and admitted there had been a dispute involving the injured individual at Hunter’s apartment after the group returned from the town’s fireworks celebration.
According to statements, tensions escalated when the victim said he was not enjoying himself, prompting verbal taunting from Hunter and Comer, including derogatory comments. The situation turned physical when the victim attempted to leave, and Hunter allegedly blocked the exit. Comer admitted to striking the victim multiple times, including after he had fallen to the ground.
A third person was also interviewed and corroborated the victim’s version of events. He told police he tried to help but was threatened by Comer and backed off. He stated he heard punches and cries for help during the assault but was afraid to intervene further.
Written statements were taken from both the victim and Jennings. The investigation is still ongoing, and charges may be forthcoming as police continue to review evidence and interview those involved.
